The following article is attributed to Dr Suresh Babu Consultant General physician, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad
Malaria is probably the most dangerous disease caused by the parasites that are transmitted to humans by the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Malaria is still a cause of serious concern to tropical and subtropical countries during and post-monsoon season even after global health interventions. Early diagnosis and treatment can save lives; however, most people tend to ignore or misinterpret the signs and symptoms of malaria and think of it as that of ordinary flu or other viral infections.
Understanding the warning signs is essential. The following are the most common symptoms of malaria that should never be left ignored:
1. Fever and Chills
The most obvious symptom of malaria, however, is having a high fever where there is usually associated chills and shivering. The fever presents with a cyclical pattern of recurrence ranging from 48 to 72 hours depending on the kind of malaria parasite. This may begin with an episode of cold shivers followed by pyrexia and high-grade fever before the sweats when the fever breaks.
2. Headaches
Severe and persistent headaches are usually associated with fever. Unlike the normal headaches due to fatigue or stress, they are usually very intense throbbing headaches. This could also look like a migraine in some cases or a sinus problem, but in malaria-endemic areas, it should seriously be regarded as a red flag.
3. Fatigue and Weakness
The parasite destroys red blood cells, resulting in anemia and causing severe fatigue. Even after very low physical activity, the person suffering from malaria will report atypical fatigue. In very severe cases, this weakness could be so crippling that the person could not even do everyday activities.
4. Muscle Aches and Body Pain
Muscle pains, aches of joints, and very generalized complaints of pains in the body are typical symptoms seen in viral fevers like dengue or in cases of flu. This pain can be very localized or very generalized throughout the body and often is accompanied by a sensation of heaviness or discomfort.
5. Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhea
Malaria affects the digestive system. The case is especially noticeable in children and aged individuals. Nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, and sometimes diarrhea are common symptoms. If not treated well in time, these conditions may lead to dehydration.
6. Sweating and Change of Temperature
Sweating usually occurs when fever is declining. Body temperature can swing widely, from very cold to very hot, then back again. Such swings can confuse, and doctors often misdiagnose them as a viral infection.
7. Abdominal Pain and Splenic Enlargement
Sometimes, malaria may appreciate pain in the upper abdomen, depending upon spleen or liver enlargement. This symptom will usually be recognized in chronic or severe cases. Such swellings can be appreciated during a physical examination, which may imply that the disease is well advanced.
8. Jaundice and Dark Urine
The destruction of red blood cells by the malaria parasite, leading to hemolysis, might cause jaundice and dark-colored urine. These are grave and extreme warnings for the dangerous cerebral type of malaria, associated with immediate medical consideration.
When to Get Medical Attention
If anyone at any given time, or someone near you, happens to have traveled through or lives in a malaria-affected area, and then suddenly develops any of the above symptoms, seek medical advice without delay. A simple blood examination can diagnose malaria, and treatment primarily consists of anti-malaria drugs, which will function well if given early.
Late diagnosis and treatment can be associated with consequences, e.g., cerebral malaria, organ failures, and even death—especially with children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
Preventive Measures
Apply repellents and sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets.
Get rid of standing water around the homes because it is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Wear closed attire covering your upper body during the evening.
Take prophylactic anti-malarial therapy when visiting endemic regions.
In Conclusion
Malaria is preventable and curable, but only when caught in good time. Don’t dismiss extended fever episodes or flu-like symptoms; especially if you’re in or have recently been to a malaria-prone area. Stay vigilante; act fast; protect yourself and others.
